Asked about how the city’s food scene has evolved, Streibich said that over the last 15 years there has been a big shift and emphasis on locally grown produce and seasonal flavors.

“While Jacksonville is behind other major cities in many regards our food scene and quality of the chefs and restaurants has vastly improved over the past 10-15 years,” Streibich said.

“People are demanding quality and are experimenting with more diverse menu offerings,” she said, citing the listing of local farms like Twinn Bridges and KYV Farms and other local supply partners on menus.

Despite what remains a slow period of economic recovery across the country, Streibich said some of the city's newest restaurants, like Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails at the Town Center, and Hawkers Asian Street Fare and Corner Taco, both in the 5 Points section of Riverside, are thriving.